Striped bass conservation since 2012
Nearly $200,000
for the fish. And counting
Schoolie exists because of striped bass. The rules, the money, the science, and the partners answer to that.
why this matters
Striped bass are in trouble.
Maryland has recorded seven straight years of low striped bass spawning success in the Chesapeake Bay. Fewer young fish today means fewer adults joining the population in the years ahead.
Schoolie exists because we love these fish — and because their return is not guaranteed. Every May, we bring the striped bass fly-fishing community together to celebrate the migration, raise money for conservation, and help protect the fishery that brings us back year after year.
The Tournament as a Field Site
THE FISH WE RELEASE TEACH US HOW TO IMPROVE.
Researchers from UMass Amherst have worked side-by-side with Schoolie teams on tournament day — collecting data on how striped bass respond to catch, handling, and release, with support from Woods Hole Sea Grant.
That research refines best practices, informs Keep Fish Wet's guidance, and helps steer management.
CONSERVATION BY DESIGN
A TOURNAMENT BUILT BACKWARDS FROM THE FISH.
Schoolie starts with what's best for a striped bass, then designs the competition inside those guidelines.
CATCH. PHOTO. RELEASE.
Every fish measured quickly, photographed, and swimming again in seconds.
One fly. One Hook.
Handling standards built with Keep Fish Wet. Poor handling isn't a penalty. It's a disqualification.
On Foot Only.
Shore and wade only - no boats chasing schools. Anglers meet the fish on the fish's terms.
Cold Water, On Purpose.
May on the Cape means cold water. This helps improve release and gives every fish its best chance to swim off strong.
Where the Money Goes
FIFTEEN YEARS OF GIVING.
Every year, tournament proceeds go to the organizations doing the actual work — the science, the advocacy, and the angler education the fishery depends on. The total has climbed every single season.
Our Conservation Partners
WE ANSWER TO THE FISH — AND TO THE PEOPLE WHO FIGHT FOR THEM.
Every rule and standard at Schoolie is shaped with our conservation partners — and every year, they weigh in on the tournament in their own words.
“If any of the organizations involved in this great tournament believed it to be detrimental to the health and future of wild Atlantic striped bass, the tournament would not happen.”
Taylor Vavra • President, Stripers Forever
"Jacques Cousteau said, 'We only protect what we love' – and this tournament has helped so many anglers protect each striped bass that comes to hand. Each fish matters and every drop counts."
Sascha Clark Danylchuk • Executive Director, Keep Fish Wet
"More than a celebration of fly fishing for striped bass – a vital unification of the community. Conservation-minded anglers have proven that when united, we can demand meaningful action for the resource we hold dear."
American Saltwater Guides Association